Cubs' general manager mum on Sosa tirade.(Chicago Tribune)

Byline: Dave van Dyck

CHICAGO _ Cubs general manager Jim Hendry says he will not be drawn into a war of words or a daily commentary on Sammy Sosa, whether it be about his future or what he has to say about his past.

Hendry refused to react to Sosa's comments from the Dominican Republic that he "felt poorly treated" by Cubs management, including manager Dusty Baker, who dropped him to sixth in the batting order in the midst of a hitting slump this season.

However, Hendry did say "I haven't heard from him" since Sosa walked out early on the final day of the season, refuting Sosa's assertion to reporter for the Spanish-language newspaper Hoy that "I can assure you that I've asked for forgiveness."

Just whom he asked isn't clear, because no one from the Cubs has apparently been in contact with the right fielder since he left just after the start of that last game against Atlanta.

After his departure, the boom box that always sits next to Sosa's locker was said to have been smashed by a teammate. Later, star pitcher Mark Prior said he thought "everybody (in the clubhouse) does need an apology."

Perhaps Sosa considers comments by his agent, Adam Katz, as his mea culpa. Katz said, a week after the fact, that Sosa was "apologetic and contrite" for blowing off the last game. Katz also said he was "sure (the two sides) will talk," but so far that apparently has not happened. They may not talk until spring training, unless the Cubs need Sosa's approval for a trade.